Fiber & Yarn Products Inc. (F&YP) — a Hickory, N.C.-based manufacturer of highly modified nylon and polyester yarn products — and Next Fiber Technology (NFT) — a Frederick, Md.-based provider of fiber technology to the textile, medical and consumer markets — have formed a strategic alliance through which the companies will combine and strengthen their intellectual properties, patents pending and manufacturing trade secrets; and also introduce NFT’s CuTEC™ and NanoGLIDE® brand technologies and innovations into other synthetic fibers, spun yarns, and staple products.

NanoGlide polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) fiber is durable, wicks sweat, dries quickly and reduces friction. The technology is mainly applied to performance apparel and socks, and according to NFT, will not wash off or wear out of the product.

The companies were assisted in forming the partnership by Rutherford College, N.C.-based polyester and nylon yarn producer O’Mara Inc., which was formerly the exclusive manufacturer of CuTec and NanoGlide products. Under the new agreement, NFT has reassigned specific licensed usage rights for the CuTec and NanoGlide brands and related technologies from O’Mara to F&YP in North and South America, Australia, Europe, the Middle East and Africa, to enable O’Mara to focus on its core markets and unique brands.
“This will enhance our mutual specialties’ technology portfolio,” said Rick Rudinger, CEO, NFT. “We are excited to have F&YP as our long-term, strategic alliance, and we want to personally thank O’Mara for their assistance over the last year with a seamless transition for our global customers.”

NFT and F&YP will continue to expand their sport/outdoor/shapewear/recreation portfolio in addition to focusing on new medical field investments. “The sales and critical business support processes are in place and operational, and the customer feedback received thus far has been extremely positive,” said David Poole, president and CEO, F&YP.